Apeldoorn

Quality of life in Apeldoorn

Cost of Living, Healthcare, Safety, Education, and More

Introduction

Apeldoorn, located in the heart of the Netherlands, is a city known for its serene landscapes and rich cultural heritage. It serves as a hub for both historical exploration and modern living, offering a unique blend of past and present. The city is characterized by its lush parks, vibrant cultural scene, and a strong sense of community.

In recent years, Apeldoorn has seen a rise in tourism, thanks to its strategic location and the presence of attractions like the Het Loo Palace. The city is also becoming a center for innovation, with emerging industries in technology and sustainability. This combination of tradition and modernity makes Apeldoorn a fascinating place to live and visit.

Climate
Outstanding
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Healthcare
Excellent
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Affordability
Reasonable
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Pollution
Very Low
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History and Culture

Apeldoorn's history dates back to the Middle Ages, with its first mention in historical records in the 8th century. The city grew significantly during the 17th century, largely due to the establishment of the Het Loo Palace, which became a royal residence. This period marked the beginning of Apeldoorn's transformation into a city of significance in the Netherlands.

Culturally, Apeldoorn is known for its diverse artistic expressions and vibrant community events. The city hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from classical music to contemporary art. Notable cultural institutions include the CODA Museum, which offers insights into local history and art, and the Orpheus Theatre, a hub for performing arts.

The city's cultural fabric is enriched by its ethnic diversity, with communities from various backgrounds contributing to its dynamic atmosphere. This diversity is reflected in local cuisine, festivals, and daily life, making Apeldoorn a melting pot of cultures.

Things to do in Apeldoorn

Visitors to Apeldoorn can explore the majestic Het Loo Palace, a baroque masterpiece surrounded by beautiful gardens. The palace offers a glimpse into the royal history of the Netherlands and hosts various exhibitions throughout the year.

For nature enthusiasts, the Hoge Veluwe National Park is a must-visit. It offers extensive trails for hiking and cycling, as well as the Kröller-Müller Museum, which houses an impressive collection of Van Gogh paintings.

Apeldoorn's city center is bustling with shops, cafes, and restaurants, providing a perfect setting for a leisurely day out. The city also hosts the annual Apeldoorn International Jazz Festival, attracting music lovers from all over the world.

Families can enjoy a day at the Apenheul Primate Park, where they can observe primates in a natural setting. The park is known for its interactive exhibits and conservation efforts.

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Netherlands

Quality of Life Rankings

The Quality of Life Rankings for Netherlands reflect how livable a city in Netherlands is. It considers factors like purchasing power, pollution, housing affordability, cost of living, safety, healthcare, commute times, and climate. A higher index score means a better quality of life.
Best to WorstUpdated: Oct, 2025

Weather in Apeldoorn

Apeldoorn, Netherlands experiences a temperate maritime climate characterized by mild summers and cool winters. The city receives an average annual precipitation of approximately 31 inches (800 mm), with October being the wettest month, averaging 3.5 inches (90 mm) of rainfall.

Seasonal Breakdown
  • Spring (March to May)Temperatures gradually rise from an average high of 50°F (10°C) in March to 64°F (18°C) in May. Rainfall increases during this period, with April receiving moderate precipitation, averaging around 2.4 inches (60 mm).
  • Summer (June to August)The warmest months, with average highs ranging from 68°F (20°C) in June to 73°F (23°C) in July. Rainfall is relatively consistent, averaging around 2.8 inches (70 mm) per month.
  • Autumn (September to November)Temperatures gradually decrease from an average high of 66°F (19°C) in September to 50°F (10°C) in November. Rainfall remains moderate, with October being the wettest month, averaging 3.5 inches (90 mm).
  • Winter (December to February)The coldest period, with average highs ranging from 43°F (6°C) in December to 41°F (5°C) in February. Snowfall is minimal, with occasional light snow showers, averaging about 1 inch (25 mm) in January.
Notable Weather Events
  • Occasional heatwaves during summer months with temperatures rising above 86°F (30°C).
  • Rare but possible snowstorms during winter, although significant accumulation is uncommon.
  • Frequent overcast skies and drizzle, particularly in autumn and winter.

Apeldoorn's Political Climate

Centrist/Progressive

Apeldoorn, located in the heart of the Netherlands, is known for its balanced and pragmatic political climate. The city operates under a municipal council system, which is typical of Dutch governance, where local policies are often shaped by coalition governments. This reflects the broader national trend of consensus politics, where multiple parties work together to form a stable government.

Historically, Apeldoorn has been a stronghold for centrist and progressive parties, with a focus on sustainability and social welfare. The city has been proactive in implementing green policies, such as promoting cycling infrastructure and renewable energy projects. These initiatives are part of a broader commitment to environmental sustainability, which is a key aspect of the city's political agenda.

The political leadership in Apeldoorn is currently focused on addressing housing shortages, improving public transportation, and enhancing digital infrastructure. These priorities are driven by the need to accommodate a growing population while maintaining the city's high quality of life. Recent political events have seen increased civic engagement, with local movements advocating for more inclusive and transparent governance.

Political Quick Facts
  • Voter Turnout75%
  • City GovernanceMunicipal council system
  • CompositionMix of centrist and progressive parties
  • Recent Political ChangesIncreased focus on digital infrastructure and housing policies
  • EngagementHigh, with active participation in local initiatives
  • Political Scorecard8/10 for governance and transparency
  • Legislative PrioritiesHousing development Public transportation improvements Digital infrastructure enhancement
  • Public OpinionGenerally supportive of progressive policies, with strong emphasis on sustainability and social welfare
Notable Political Figures
  • John van der LaanCurrent mayor known for his focus on sustainability and innovation.
  • Maria de VriesCity council member advocating for housing reforms.
  • Peter JanssenLocal activist and leader of a civic engagement initiative.